The next major ChatGPT upgrade arrives in January
Short summary:
OpenAI is preparing a major update to ChatGPT in January with the launch of a new AI agent called "Operator." This upgrade promises to take action on users' behalf, opening the door for hands-off tasks like booking flights automatically.
OpenAI is set to debut a new AI agent, code-named Operator, in January, enabling ChatGPT to perform tasks autonomously on behalf of users, such as booking flights or handling other complex actions. Announced during a staff meeting and reported by Bloomberg, the feature will launch as a research preview through OpenAI’s developer API. Unlike traditional programs, AI agents can independently perceive, process, and act on information to solve problems or complete tasks without predefined instructions.
This move places OpenAI in competition with companies like Anthropic, Microsoft, and Google, which are also developing AI agents. Anthropic recently introduced a tool that mimics human interactions with desktop environments, while Microsoft’s AI agent automates office tasks like managing records and drafting emails. Google’s AI project, Jarvis, is expected to preview by year’s end. OpenAI's Operator, reportedly capable of actions through a web browser, reflects growing industry interest in making AI more practical and action-oriented.
The announcement comes as developers face challenges with improving AI models due to increasing resource demands and diminishing returns. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman highlighted the transformative potential of AI agents during a Reddit AMA, calling them the "next giant breakthrough." By focusing on functionality rather than brute-forcing performance improvements, OpenAI and its peers aim to make AI tools more useful and impactful in everyday applications.